Rice pudding is a comforting, creamy dessert made by slowly cooking rice with milk, sugar, and flavorings like vanilla and cinnamon. It’s enjoyed worldwide in different forms from Indian kheer to European-style custard puddings.
🥣 Ingredients
- 1 cup medium-grain rice (or Arborio for creaminess)
- 3½ cups whole milk (divided)
- 5 cups water
- ½ cup sugar
- 1 pinch salt
- 1 egg
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup raisins (optional)
- 1 tbsp butter
- Ground cinnamon (for garnish)
👉 Medium-grain rice works best because it releases more starch, creating a creamy texture.
Also Read: Red Beans and Rice Recipe
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Method
1. Cook the Rice Base
In a large pot, combine:
- 3 cups milk
- water
- rice
- sugar
- salt
Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat while stirring continuously to prevent burning.
2. Slow Simmer
Once it starts bubbling (about 15–25 minutes), reduce heat to low.
Cook for 25–35 minutes until:
- rice becomes soft
- mixture thickens
👉 Stir frequently so the rice doesn’t stick.
3. Prepare Egg Mixture
In a bowl, whisk:
- ½ cup milk
- 1 egg
Slowly add some hot rice mixture to this (tempering), then pour it back into the pot while stirring.
4. Add Flavor & Finish
Stir in:
- vanilla extract
- raisins
Cook for 2–3 more minutes until creamy.
5. Final Touch
Remove from heat and add butter.
Let it cool slightly—it thickens more as it cools.
6. Serve
- Serve warm or
- Chill in fridge for 2 hours
Top with cinnamon or nuts if desired.
Also Read: The Original Rice Krispies Treats Recipe
🍽️ Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 40–45 g |
| Protein | 6–8 g |
| Fat | 6–8 g |
| Sugar | 18–22 g |
| Calcium | Moderate |
👉 Values may vary depending on milk and sugar used.
💡 Pro Tips for Best Results
- Cook slowly, rushing can burn milk or undercook rice
- Stir frequently for a smooth texture
- Add cinnamon at the end to avoid discoloration
- It thickens more after cooling, don’t overcook
Also Read: Beef Chuck Roast Recipe
🍨 Variations You Can Try
- Add cardamom for Indian-style flavor
- Use condensed milk for extra richness
- Add nuts like almonds or pistachios
- Replace sugar with jaggery for a traditional twist


